IDF launches probe after soldier seen mocking Virgin Mary's Statue in Lebanon by placing a cigarette in mouth

An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier was caught on camera smoking and placing a cigarette in the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in southern Lebanon, prompting the Israeli military to launch an investigation after the image went viral online.

According to media reports, the photograph was taken in the village of Debel.

In the same village, another soldier was reportedly photographed smashing a statue of Jesus Christ with a sledgehammer.

Reacting to the incident, IDF International Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said, “The IDF views the incident with utmost severity and emphasizes that the conduct of the soldier completely deviates from the values expected of its personnel.”

“Following an initial review, the image in question was taken several weeks ago. The incident will be investigated, and command measures will be taken against the soldier in accordance with the findings,” he added.

The head of Debel’s congregation, Father Fadi Felfeli, told the BBC: “Honestly, this issue really provoked us, especially after the apology regarding the cross.”

“It also shows that there are individuals within the Israeli army who lack ethics and values and are bigoted. This reflects a great deal of fanaticism,” he said.

Father Felfeli confirmed that the Virgin Mary statue remained intact and had not been damaged, but described the act as “unethical”.

“These actions reflect extremism and intolerance that should not exist, especially toward a village that values peace and neutrality and is not involved in the war,” he added.

Poland condemns the incident

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland also expressed strong concern over the incident.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland expresses strong concern regarding another incident involving a soldier of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in Lebanon, who showed disrespect toward the figure of the Virgin Mary. Such actions offend the religious sentiments of Christians,” the ministry said in a statement posted on X.

“Every state has a responsibility to respect this fundamental right. In Poland, insulting religious feelings is a punishable offense. Repeated incidents involving representatives of the State of Israel that violate the religious sentiments of Christians undermine efforts to promote peace and cooperation in the Middle East,” the statement added.

Lebanon was drawn deeper into the regional conflict in early March after the Iran-backed Hezbollah launched rocket attacks against Israel in support of Iran.

Israel responded with massive airstrikes across Lebanon and later launched a ground offensive in the country’s south.

Although the two sides later agreed to a ceasefire, the truce has steadily weakened, with sporadic clashes continuing despite a lower level of violence compared to the period before the ceasefire announced in mid-April, according to media reports.